[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 133 (Wednesday, September 29, 2010)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1798] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING BRIANNA COMMERFORD ON BEING NAMED HOPE ON WHEELS' NATIONAL YOUTH AMBASSADOR ______ HON. SCOTT GARRETT of new jersey in the house of representatives Wednesday, September 29, 2010 Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Hyundai Hope on Wheels program, and to congratulate a brave young woman named Brianna Commerford on being named the Hope on Wheels' National Youth Ambassador. This program will donate $6.8 million to 68 children's hospitals across the nation, continuing Hyundai's long- standing commitment to the treatment of pediatric cancer. The organization could not have picked a more able or appropriate ambassador than Brianna. One of the great joys of serving in Congress is representing so many outstanding and remarkable citizens who use their life abilities and experiences to improve the lives of those they may never meet. Brianna Commerford is one of those exemplary citizens. Just twelve years old, Brianna displays a wisdom and maturity far beyond her years, and has created incredible good out of one of life's most terrifying situations. When she was nine years old, Brianna was diagnosed with Stage IV Hodgkin's Lymphoma. With courage, tenacity, and support from those around her, Brianna overcame a year of grueling treatment and eventually defeated the cancer. Since entering remission in October 2009, Brianna has shared her story of survival in schools, hospitals, and other places across New Jersey, bringing hope and inspiration to so many. Moreover, Brianna has helped raise over $20,000 for the American Cancer Society. Brianna has taken a scary and daunting prognosis and unlocked its potential for good. She has learned one of life's most difficult lessons--that greatness is found in our ability to create good within our own locus of control. I can think of no one better suited to serve as a National Ambassador for this important cause. The same energy that carried her through treatment will serve the Hope on Wheels initiative well, as Brianna and Hyundai partner to find new ways to treat and hopefully one day prevent and cure pediatric cancer. Thanks to her courage and the skill of her doctors, Brianna is back to doing what she loves: riding horses, playing soccer, and living the life of an active twelve-year-old. She has made the commendable decision to further the cause of pediatric cancer research by sharing her story with us today. In closing, I would like to leave you with you a line from a poem Brianna wrote while she was in treatment: ``I have CANCER and I really DON'T like it. The chemo is GROSS, but I'm STRONG and can fight it.'' Brianna brings a powerful testimony to the importance of living courageously and pursuing your goals relentlessly. It is an honor to represent Brianna and her family in Congress, and pay tribute to the many successes she has achieved with her great courage and persistence. ____________________